Malaysia is happy hunting ground for Zhi Yi
KUALA LUMPUR: There is something about playing in Malaysia that brings out the best in Wang Zhi Yi after the top Chinese shuttler reached her third consecutive final at the Axiata Arena on Saturday.
It is at this venue the world No. 2 won the Malaysia Masters last year and finished second to South Korean An Se Young in the Malaysia Open in January.
Zhi Yi reached the Malaysia Masters final today after beating Thailand's world No. 11 Ratchanok Intanon 21-17, 21-16, which was the Chinese shuttler's first win after six consecutive defeats.
"To be honest, I didn't even realise that (three consecutive finals in Malaysia). Every time I play in Malaysia, there are always lots of fans cheering me on, which really gives me extra motivation," said Zhi Yi.
"I think making it to the final is something every player dreams of, because everyone wants to win the title.
"I faced a lot of challenges during the match, but the best thing I did today was staying firm and believing in myself."
Zhi Yi will meet world No. 3 and compatriot Han Yue — who defeated Japan's two-time world champion Akane Yamaguchi 21-19, 21-16 — in the final.
"We're teammates and not only do Han Yue and I train together, we often run into each other in international competitions," added Zhi Yi.
"We know each other very well, so I'm preparing for a really tough match."
Since Malaysia is like a second home to her and with a favourable 7-3 head-to-head record, Zhi Yi is tipped to retain her Malaysia Masters crown tomorrow.
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